Comparing Theory and Measurements of Cross-Polar Fields of a Phased-Array Weather Radar

Abstract

Cross-polar measurements made with an agile-beam phased-array weather radar are compared with theory. The intensity of cross-polar fields places conditions on the accuracy of meteorological measurements. Results reported herein support the hypothesis that polarimetric phased-array radar for weather observations can be designed to allow the use of the polarimetric data acquisition mode being implemented by the National Weather Service on upgraded WSR-88Ds which use parabolic reflector antennas.